Christmas Day 2023 in Florida is expected to bring more than just holiday joy. It marks the potential revelation of the identity of the recipient of the unprecedented $1.602 billion Mega Millions jackpot, in compliance with state regulations.
The winning ticket for this historic jackpot was bought on August 8 at the Publix on 630 Atlantic Boulevard in Neptune Beach, surpassing the previous record of $1.537 billion set in South Carolina on October 23, 2018.
Although the winner came forward to claim the prize in September, their identity was initially kept confidential in accordance with Florida’s specific lottery laws.
Their identity was safeguarded under the “EXEMPT PURSUANT TO F.S. 24.1051” statute. Nevertheless, under this legislation, the provision for confidentiality ceases to be valid after a period of 90 days.
This implies that starting from December 25, the identity of the winner is no longer kept under wraps, and the Florida Lottery is authorized to disclose their name.
Opting for the cash prize, the winner received a total of $783 million. Additionally, Publix was granted a $100,000 bonus commission for vending the winning ticket. The drawn numbers for this event were 13, 19, 20, 32, and 33, with Mega Ball 14 and a 2X Megaplier.
Initiated on May 25, 2022, Florida’s legislation ensures that individuals claiming prizes exceeding $250,000 can maintain confidentiality for a specified duration.
As the confidentiality provision in the law now expires, the public is eagerly anticipating the revelation of the person behind this historic win.
